Brent Charron

I participated in the Windsor Regional Science, Technology, and Engineering Fair (WRSTEF) from 2011 to 2019, during which I had the incredible opportunity to represent Windsor at the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) several times. Over the years, I was fortunate to earn two Gold Medals at CWSF, along with the Resources Challenge Award, the CAP Physics Prize, and the Artificial Intelligence Award.

Throughout my time as a participant, I explored a variety of topics — from passive solar heating and stretchable electronics to mobility accessibility — each project pushing me to learn more about how science and engineering can make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

My experience with WRSTEF helped set the foundation for everything that followed. It nurtured my curiosity, strengthened my math and STEM skills, and—just as importantly—taught me how to communicate complex ideas clearly and confidently. Those skills carried me through my degree in Mechanical Engineering with an Automotive specialization and a minor in Mathematics at the University of Windsor, and now into my career working in electric battery development at Stellantis.

WRSTEF continues to be an important part of my life; I’ve served on the planning committee since 2021, and as of this year, I’m proud to be one of the fair’s co-chairs. It’s incredibly rewarding to help create the same opportunities for today’s students that meant so much to me growing up.

To students considering participating, my best advice is to start with something that matters to you personally. Pick a broad topic that affects your life or community, then dig deeper to find where you can make an impact. That personal connection will keep you motivated and make your work shine.

And to partners—thank you. Your support truly changes lives. As a past participant, I can say firsthand that the opportunities WRSTEF provides wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of local donors and professionals. Their investment not only helped me develop as a scientist and engineer, but also helped shape the professional network I rely on today. Supporting WRSTEF is one of the best ways to invest in Windsor’s future—nurturing passionate, capable young scientists, engineers, educators, and innovators who will go on to strengthen our community for years to come.

Brynn Charron

I participated in the Windsor Regional Science, Technology, and Engineering Fair (WRSTEF) from 2008 to 2014, where I had the opportunity to explore my curiosity and share my research on topics such as wind energy and population genetics. During my time at the fair, I was honoured to be selected to compete on the national level 4 times, whereI received a Silver Medal, but more importantly, I gained invaluable experience that helped shape my future.

I went on to study Biochemistry with a minor in Mathematics at the University of Windsor, followed by medical school and an Orthopaedic Surgery residency at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, where I also completed a Master of Surgery. Today, I am completing the final years of my residency to become a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon and am in the process of applying to fellowship programs.

My experience with WRSTEF played a meaningful role in that journey. Science fair teaches a kind of resilience that few other extracurriculars do. Rarely does an idea work perfectly the first time—it takes patience, problem-solving, and iteration. Those lessons have carried with me through every stage of my education and medical training. WRSTEF also introduced me to the importance of mentorship. I was fortunate to collaborate with professors and researchers who provided access to professional tools and facilities, and now as a resident, I strive to give back by mentoring students and younger residents in the same way.

To students thinking about participating: don’t be afraid of failure. Every project that doesn’t go as planned is a chance to learn and grow. And beyond the learning, WRSTEF offers recognition, scholarships, and experiences that make a real difference on university and career applications.

To donors, I want to say thank you. Your support makes the fair possible and opens doors for countless students to discover their potential. Your contributions not only allow top competitors to represent Windsor at the national level, but also ensure that academically driven students have the same opportunities for recognition and growth that athletic programs often provide. Supporting WRSTEF is a direct investment in the next generation of innovators, researchers, and leaders.